TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: We’ve been telling you about Scientology’s big new initiative aimed at kids, and more keeps reaching us about how it’s going. A new item suggests that Scientology parents are under a lot of pressure [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: We’ve been telling you about Scientology’s big new initiative aimed at kids, and more keeps reaching us about how it’s going. A new item suggests that Scientology parents are under a lot of pressure to get in gear with this creepy new vibe. ALSO: Chris Shelton’s new book is out! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“Good Word Clearing is a system of backtracking. You have to look earlier than the point the student became dull or confused and you’ll find that there’s a word that he doesn’t understand somewhere before the trouble started. The student will brighten up the moment he spots the word, even before the word is cleared. And if he doesn’t brighten up there will be a misunderstood word even before that one.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1981

 
——————–

Source Code

“We find our people, as we process them, further and further along on this curve of create, through survive, to destroy. And when we get well past survive, we get to an individual who can think in no terms but suicide. He tries to kill himself and those around him. He would not even dream of getting, you might say, out of the body. All he can think of is being in the body and destroying things. He has bought the physical universe. Well, we try to process this individual. We normally find him in sanitariums, and so forth, because he’s no longer able to promote the biological line; and we find his anxiety on the subject of sex very, very great, but it’s very destructive. It’s not the type of sexual activity that would lead to an unending stream of protoplasm. Quite on the contrary, it would be a type of sexual activity which said ‘The unending stream of protoplasm must now end,’ which is to say homosexuality, other misconducts. And we’d find him over on the physical universe side of the ledger over here. And he would be very involved with rocks and solid masses of various things. He’s really left the biological line.” — L. Ron Hubbard, April 22, 1954

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“The VIP Party was a huge success, Governor, Lord Mayor and all. Div VI must receive full cooperation on set ups and drills, however. We are at our best in Billing and Drilling. It’s been an awful long time since I heard the rush and pound of feet getting a drill drilled. Guest drill is just another drill. The Supercargo is reponsible for having a well drilled ship. The smartest ships ever were the heavily drilled Enchanter, Avon River and the pre-Melilla RSM! So WE DRILL 1700 to 1800 DAILY HEREAFTER, at sea or in port Supercargo and Ship LRH Comm Take note please.” — The Commodore, April 22, 1970

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“Over the last 10 years I have been on a structured, methodical, examination of my past. I do positive work as well to stay well and fully in PT, but discovering and understanding my experiences has been the bulk of my activity. With over 10,000 hours of looking, I have built up a fair understanding of my timeline with a pretty good knowledge of the key eras of our existence. These major eras seem to have the greatest affect on who we have become, with additional various incidents acting as locks, solidifying the primary postulates, decisions. For example, most recently the rise of large, common universes and how we were drawn into, then locked into this system of existence.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1997: Jeff Jacobsen reported that the most recent Freedom newspaper gave details about a recent Scientology celebration and PR spin on the case of a woman who fled the Ft. Harrison hotel to jump into the bay. “Freedom newspaper issue 11 has a story ‘An evening celebrating the birthday of L. Ron Hubbard’ which is pretty interesting. David Miscavige was MC for the 3500 attendees. The article is noteworthy in that it gives NO figure to show that the church is expanding; only the claim that church is one ‘of the most vital and rapidly growing religions on earth.’ They don’t mention that they have claimed 8 million members since 1991. Some figures DM did give were; 3.8 million kids are now literate, 250,000 people gotten off drugs, 76,000 firms use Hubbard management tech, 53 million people furnished with the Way to Happiness. Also, they claim 17 million hits on their web pages since opening, and 7.5 million hits in the last 2.5 months. Dan Sherman is working on a bogus biography of Hubbard that again touts the idea that he was a war hero. A new church in London England and Florence Italy are now open. ‘Thought Police’ in Clearwater? which is about the woman who on March 1 ran out of the Ft. Harrison hotel at 5am. This article claims that the police saw her and decided to get involved so they could *deprogram her* from Scientology! ‘Her time there [at the police station], in essence, amounted to an unsuccessful attempt to ‘deprogram’ her from her religion.’ This article also states that Detective Tom Miller ‘helped members of the former CAN to stage a ‘demonstration’ in Clearwater in March 1996.’ This is bogus. The police were talking to both sides and trying to strike a deal wherein the police would have no problems that day. Detective Miller NEVER told us what to do or even made any suggestions. He was there for us to tell him what our plans were.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“At least two thirds of the people who showed up on the top five anti-Scientology vids on YouTube from 2008-2010 representing themselves as Scientologists were in fact FAKE. And I was usually the person who busted them.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

Civil litigation:
— Leah Remini v. Scientology, alleging ‘Fair Game’ harassment and defamation: Some defamation claims were removed by Judge Hammock. Judge Hammock’s ruling is on appeal, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, Scientology Black Ops: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?

 
——————–

THE WHOLE TRACK

[ONE year ago] A Scientology attorney, his secret work for the church, and his Paris legacy
[TWO years ago] Val Ross: Midnight terror in the career of a Scientology spy
[THREE years ago] A warrior’s journey in and out of Scientology
[FOUR years ago] When L. Ron Hubbard assigns you to the deep: A slice of Scientology in new book
[FIVE years ago] Why Danny Masterson’s attacks on Leah Remini aren’t helping him in court
[SIX years ago] Even a pandemic can’t stop Scientology from tracking you down, apostate!
[SEVEN years ago] Where is Scientology dying most Ideally? Could it be our neighbor to the north?
[EIGHT years ago] Everything — even Scientology — is up to date in Kansas City, and here’s who’s responsible!
[NINE years ago] Scientology denied twice in wrongful death lawsuit as parents grieve for Tabatha Fauteux
[TEN years ago] Another depressing piece of evidence that Scientology advocates splitting apart families
[ELEVEN years ago] Scientology: Making fools of your local elected lunkheads since 1952
[TWELVE years ago] The Garcias take one more shot at Scientology before their fraud suit will live or die
[THIRTEEN years ago] GARCIAS RESPOND TO SCIENTOLOGY: YOU’RE A BIG RIPOFF

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on April 22, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.

The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 Some links to Q-related items today

Trump’s schedule today is a large block of “executive time” followed by meetings closed to the press pic.twitter.com/a0zpp4gjxr

— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) April 20, 2026

Trump Boosts “Shut the F*ck Up” Video Aimed at MAGA Critics

The video frames Trump as [...]]]>

 
Some links to Q-related items today

 
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent article at New York magazine as a place to start.

 
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.

Posted by Tony Ortega on April 21, 2026 at 08:00

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Scientology held another grand opening this weekend, this time in downtown Clearwater. But it wasn’t a new ‘Ideal Org.’ It was for a ‘showroom’ dedicated to thrilling Scientologists over the continuing Clearwater takeover. And [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: Scientology held another grand opening this weekend, this time in downtown Clearwater. But it wasn’t a new ‘Ideal Org.’ It was for a ‘showroom’ dedicated to thrilling Scientologists over the continuing Clearwater takeover. And we have Mark Bunker’s thoughts on it! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“It is interesting that if a criminal were to face up suddenly to the enormity of his crimes he would go into degradation and self-destruction. Thus a gradient scale is definitely indicated. As the person has more R (reality) he can take more responsibility and only then with pulling withholds can he have any real benefit. This HCOB is simply some data on the criminal mind that might help. At the very least it should give some understanding of why some individuals insist with such apparent conviction that all men are evil, why all men are insane, why all men are criminals.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1981

 
——————–

Source Code

“The road into this universe is successive unawarenesses. And the road out is successive awarenesses. But not just bare-breasting your chest to the whole universe. No, you have to find out why the individual didn’t want to be aware at those points, and he didn’t want to be aware because he solved it. Well, what’s this solution? Well, that was yesterday’s problem. Yesterday’s solution, problem, solution, problem, solution — they’re all the same line of cat. He got himself into trouble by solving himself into trouble. And when he has solved himself all the way into trouble totally, he’s here, and he’s the fireman down in the stokehold. And therefore there are no lower levels of subconscious for you to explore; there are only upper levels of awareness.” — L. Ron Hubbard, April 21, 1964

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“We’re having a VIP function aboard at 1900 tonight. The Mayor, Harbour Master, news photographers and approx 20 others are invited. Just like crew became so expert at handling in February. Everyone’s agreement and assistance will be much appreciated.” — Lt. Barry Watson, Pub Exec Officer, April 21, 1970

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“Our task is to somehow transform social perception of Scientology. This in the face of a sea of: bad press, entrenched current and former Scientologists, fake news, a general and worldwide disparagement of religion, and a fleet of so called Ideal Orgs which will (probably soon) be embroiled in a maelstrom of bankruptcies. Empty buildings cannot sit that way for long. It is contrary to the laws of exchange, among other things. That will bring more ‘news,’ this time of the ‘demise of Scientology.’ Which is good. It is a law of this universe that death always preceeds the resurgence of life.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1996: An update was posted concerning Bonnie Woods and Ron Lawley, both UK critics under legal attack from the cult. “Bonnie Woods now has 1 libel suit from Narconon, 1 counter suit from COSRECI, 1 libel suit against COSRECI and now COSRECI have brought another libel suit against Bonnie and Richard for the distribution of the FUSS leaflet. This was the leaflet handed out outside orgs around the UK in July of last year, asking people to watch the Big Story TV programme. I [Lawley] am still waiting for my hearing before the Court of Appeal regarding whether I have ‘locus standi’ which will decide whether I, as a bankrupt, have the right to defend the appeal against me being given the NOTs materials, as was ordered by Judge Sumner. The hearing date could be any time now so we just sit and wait. I am helping Bonnie and Richard get through these 4 libel actions. Sometimes I spend 30 hours a week on the paperwork and the hardship fund covers expenses for all our cases. So please thank people once again for the assistance which will enable all these cases to come to court. At the moment I see no reason why we should lose. So thanks again to all SPs everywhere.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“Most people have never heard of the guy who invented the mouse. But a lot of them have heard of L Ron Hubbard. This is why I drink.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

Civil litigation:
— Leah Remini v. Scientology, alleging ‘Fair Game’ harassment and defamation: Some defamation claims were removed by Judge Hammock. Judge Hammock’s ruling is on appeal, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, Scientology Black Ops: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?

 
——————–

THE WHOLE TRACK

[ONE year ago] Scientology ads in London were to be replaced by ads from ex-Scientologists
[TWO years ago] Jane Doe, like Leah Remini, asks for judge in Danny Masterson lawsuit after Miscavige stunt
[THREE years ago] Did prosecutors leave a Danny Masterson fan on the retrial jury?
[FOUR years ago] More proof that Hollywood is over Scientology: Netflix openly mocks it with billboard
[FIVE years ago] The Top 25 People Enabling Scientology, No. 2: Monique Yingling
[SIX years ago] City of Inglewood: Brian Statler shouldn’t have resisted arrest and forced us to shoot him dead
[SEVEN years ago] Scientology’s mad real estate splurge has real consequences for its indentured workers
[EIGHT years ago] Hana Whitfield’s book excerpt: L. Ron Hubbard’s amidships meltdown over ‘Xemu’ and OT 3
[NINE years ago] Bunker reader Dee Findlay stole the show as Clearwater stood up to Scientology last night
[TEN years ago] How Lisa Marie Presley became Scientology leader David Miscavige’s worst nightmare
[ELEVEN years ago] Marc Headley reveals the embarrassing technological secrets of Scientology
[TWELVE years ago] Convicted of fraud by France’s highest court, Scientology still pursues creative appeals
[THIRTEEN years ago] Sunday Funnies: The United States of Scientology

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on April 21, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.

The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 Some links to Q-related items today

“As of today?”

Sean Hannity left the Catholic Church in 2019.

So phony and performative. pic.twitter.com/thlkz9QOLK

— PatriotTakes 🇺🇸 (@patriottakes) April 19, 2026

NEW: The families of more than 100 school children killed in the U.S. bombing of an Iranian school [...]]]>

 
Some links to Q-related items today

 
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent article at New York magazine as a place to start.

 
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.

Posted by Tony Ortega on April 20, 2026 at 08:00

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: The New York Post published a fascinating expose of Joanna Vargas, a famous facialist to the stars accused of subjecting workers to Scientology, but the piece didn’t consult experts about those practices. So we [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: The New York Post published a fascinating expose of Joanna Vargas, a famous facialist to the stars accused of subjecting workers to Scientology, but the piece didn’t consult experts about those practices. So we turned to one for some additional help about what’s going on. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“Hammering the same point over and over doesn’t ever find the CAUSE of a repeating error. (And there shouldn’t even be a first error if he did his course or post hat properly.) In practice, in the case of a suddenly slowed rate of study or in the case of a sudden rash of overt products, one looks just before the change occurred and handles what is found there. Sometimes it’s necessary to carry it earlier to get the real cause of the trouble found and handled. When HE’s found (not when YOU’ve found) what is out you’ll have all the VGIs you could ask for and the error will not repeat.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1981

 
——————–

Source Code

“Well now look, Mary Sue has been working very, very hard to make an OT out of me and been working at it and working at it and she didn’t make the grade. I wanted to get OT today so I could give you some nice weather. And I just didn’t make it, I’m sorry. I only got thirteen banks back and got stuck, you know.” — L. Ron Hubbard, April 20, 1963

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“PARTY: Barry, Cathy and Liz did a good job on the party. Decorations were by the Middies, Claire, Terri, Suzette, Ann and Janis. Barry gave out dancing prizes. For such courage above and beyond the line of duty, he was himself decorated. Well done to Div VI.” — The Commodore, April 20, 1970

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“We no longer need to address the problems in life via time and energy. We now have a thetan who no longer requires a via to give birth to a positive postulate; one moves forward simply postulating anew. A Scientological being is no longer part of the common denominator of existence: to survive. A higher harmonic, a higher level of ‘survive’ is to live in postulates. He is immortal and he knows it. If there is any time it is simply now. Now is when a true theta being exists continually. If one wants to change a current mockup, all one does is postulate the new mockup. We no longer need to look back into the past to resolve an unwanted condition.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

1995: “Jeff Jacobsen posted a fascinating report card from George Washington University. It shows that Hubbard failed just about everything but physical education. I think this should be kept handy as a standard counter to the claims that he was well-educated.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“Human nature isn’t that complex. If you strip away the unnatural veneer of civilization, what are you left with? Spend some time on the street and tell me human nature is complex. Human egotism is infinite is more like it.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

Civil litigation:
— Leah Remini v. Scientology, alleging ‘Fair Game’ harassment and defamation: Some defamation claims were removed by Judge Hammock. Judge Hammock’s ruling is on appeal, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, Scientology Black Ops: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?

 
——————–

THE WHOLE TRACK

[ONE year ago] Scientology targets clients of Marc and Claire Headley in another Fair Game scheme
[TWO years ago] Is Leah Remini’s advocacy against Scientology keeping her from an honor she deserves?
[THREE years ago] Jury selection in the Danny Masterson retrial: Today, the attorneys take over
[FOUR years ago] Scientology knows it can get your cash with a Great Gatsby party, New Yorkers!
[FIVE years ago] Scientology is always coming up with sneaky new ways to snag actors and other artists
[SIX years ago] Tom Cruise on InTouch cover: Another completely oversold Scientology clip job
[SEVEN years ago] Bull baiting and so much worse: Margery Wakefield on surviving Scientology
[EIGHT years ago] Joy Villa’s Scientologist husband shamed into dropping elephant skin bags from luxury line
[NINE years ago] As Clearwater votes, here’s a reminder of how L. Ron Hubbard had Scientology invade Florida
[TEN years ago] Disconnection, Miscavige style: How Scientology’s most powerful family came apart
[ELEVEN years ago] See the message a Scientologist sends to disconnect from a best friend, forever
[TWELVE years ago] Easter Sunday Funnies: David Miscavige has risen, & Scientology has more money than ever!
[THIRTEEN years ago] African Queen: The Man L. Ron Hubbard Thought He Was

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on April 20, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.

The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 Some links to Q-related items today

Buttigieg: Maybe you voted for him because when he said he was going to keep us out of foreign wars, you believed him.

I can’t stop thinking about what it felt like when it was my turn to be going on one [...]]]>

 
Some links to Q-related items today

 
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent article at New York magazine as a place to start.

 
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.

Posted by Tony Ortega on April 19, 2026 at 08:00

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: What if a powerful elected official took a real interest in the abuses of Scientology? We have another stunning report from Alex Barnes-Ross as he gets government interested in amending the law to hold [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: What if a powerful elected official took a real interest in the abuses of Scientology? We have another stunning report from Alex Barnes-Ross as he gets government interested in amending the law to hold abusive groups to account. And he has some breaking news for us today! [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“A Cramming Officer can fall into the trap of going rote and simply carrying out a cramming order robotically. This is a sort of non-involvement on the Cramming
Officer’s part. He goes through the motions of the cram and does exactly what was ordered, without question. He does not really participate in the cram and, at best,
hopes for a result. This sometimes occurs on incorrect cramming orders where the person being crammed and the Cramming Officer both just resign themselves to doing the cram, without getting the matter properly resolved. It also occurs sometimes because the Cramming Officer thinks he has to know all about the subject before he can cram the person on it. So the Cramming Officer just robotically does what was ordered. That is a confession that the Cramming Officer doesn’t know Study Tech and
Cramming Tech. These are his tools. If a Cramming Officer knows these then he can handle anyone, even if the person is having trouble learning Chinese!” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1981

 
——————–

Source Code

“I remember training generals in Egypt. It was difficult. You say, ‘When fighting Numidians, you inevitably and invariably make very certain that your flanks are secure, because the Numidian — because of horses and that sort of thing — can very easily collapse your flanks. So one of the first things you do in fighting Numidians is make sure that both flanks are very secure. And the best way to do this is to put one flank against the seacoast. You see? And the other flank against a wadi. You see, that’s the best way to do that. No general you ever taught ever fought any Numidians on the seacoast. You see, you run into these small difficulties in training. That’s typical of Earth.” — L. Ron Hubbard, April 19, 1962

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“The Ponies are to be made operational for use in All Hands Evolutions. Lafayettes are not to be used due to their long range per LRH order.” — Lt. Cmdr Diana Hubbard, CS-1, April 19, 1969

Overheard in the FreeZone

“There is another life energy that I don’t think LRH addressed and that had to do with the physical body and the trillion-plus cells. Some of these cells are bacterial in nature, they keep some of the body functions balanced. They too have a life force, an urge to survive. Now when a case gets overloaded by stress, plus multiple engrams, a thetan and the body’s immune system gets out of balance, allowing the life force of the micro life forms to have a greater say, stealing theta. To me this is part of the equation and recognizing it helps bodies and thetans who run them in the end be more in PT and have increased telepathy. By the way, being telepathic is a natural state, so one would have to ask what stands in the way of experiencing this ability, both from a theta and body perspective. We are so connected to a body it’s hard to disconnect from the MEST of it. But both theta and MEST/body need to be addressed to be able to reliably be telepathic.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

2002: Lawrence Wollersheim posted an update to his long-running case, in which he is trying to collect a multi-million dollar judgment against Scientology for abuse while he was a member. “The case has now entered the last part of its third and final phase. The first phase was the original case, which showed Scientology’s auditing practices as dangerous mind control. The case was won, but Scientology conveyed $500,000,000 out of the Church of Scientology of California in order to claim that CSC could not pay the now approximate $9,000,000 judgment. The second phase was the Wollersheim victory in a Strategic Lawsuits against Public Participation lawsuit against Scientology in which Wollersheim was awarded, and Scientology paid, $500,000 in fines. The third phase is just about to go to the judge for a ruling. This phase involves showing that Church of Scientology International and Religious Technology Corporation controlled CSC and therefore are responsible to pay the CSC Wollersheim judgment. The Judge will be listening to the MCCS tapes where Scientology discusses transferring assets and committing a fraud on the IRS. The judge may order David Miscavige to the witness stand as he was involved in most of the CSC, CSI, RTC and MCCS transactions. The final evidence for phase three will be heard May 9-15, 2002. The judge is expected to issue his final ruling within 30-90 days after that. Here is how I see the case ending and the realistic timetables: The judge will rule in our favor. Scientology will then spend another two to three years appealing that new decision. Scientology will have to put up about a 15 million dollar bond. We will survive their appeals and enforce the collection against the 15 million bond or CSI and RTC by seizing their assets.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“Denise is teaching the kids how the barter system works.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

Civil litigation:
— Leah Remini v. Scientology, alleging ‘Fair Game’ harassment and defamation: Some defamation claims were removed by Judge Hammock. Judge Hammock’s ruling is on appeal, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, Scientology Black Ops: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?

 
——————–

THE WHOLE TRACK

[ONE year ago] Killer Scientology documentary from 1985 is put online by network
[TWO years ago] Scientology email claims massive new construction plans by year end
[THREE years ago] Judge Olmedo begins quizzing prospective jurors in the Danny Masterson retrial
[FOUR years ago] Scientology features director’s mom as John Malkovich movie hits theaters
[FIVE years ago] Fun new leak: The current Scientology staff application and contract
[SIX years ago] Scientology: Earth is a prison planet and the virus just another fake threat. So study LRH!
[SEVEN years ago] COMING MAY 9: Silvertail Books publishes Chris Owen’s ‘Ron the War Hero’
[EIGHT years ago] Scientology’s greatest lecture of all: It’s finally time we look closer at Xenu in all his glory
[NINE years ago] How a recanted John Travolta gay sex allegation led to a bizarre Michael Jackson scoop
[TEN years ago] Ron Miscavige’s book ‘Ruthless’ gets a UK publisher and it’s a familiar one
[ELEVEN years ago] Another wacky Scientology testimonial video — and an Underground Bunker announcement!
[TWELVE years ago] Is Google aiding a Scientology front group that claims the Holocaust was caused by psychiatry?
[THIRTEEN years ago] Jason Barclay’s Sea Org Adventure: A Fresh Scientology Escapee Details Abuse

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on April 19, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.

The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 Some links to Q-related items today

Trump: We suspended all refugee resettlement, except for persecuted South Africans. There's a very horrible thing going on in South Africa. It's a genocide. They kill people if they're white. If you're a white person. I did great with the black [...]]]>

 
Some links to Q-related items today

 
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent article at New York magazine as a place to start.

 
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.

Posted by Tony Ortega on April 18, 2026 at 08:00

 TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: While Scientology leader David Miscavige’s plans for expansion at the UK headquarters keep running into opposition, he’s got a large structure going up in South Africa. But what is it? Dave usual crows about [...]]]>

 
TODAY AT SUBSTACK: If you’ve signed up for free emails at Substack, you will receive today’s feature story at your inbox: While Scientology leader David Miscavige’s plans for expansion at the UK headquarters keep running into opposition, he’s got a large structure going up in South Africa. But what is it? Dave usual crows about big projects, so we would love some help on this. [What is this Substack thing, anyway?]

 
——————–

Technology Cocktail

“A Cramming Officer does not need to be trained on or be an expert in the materials or subject on which he is cramming another. The liability, if he is so trained, and is himself out-ethics, is that often he may enter his own false data, misunderstoods, confusions and/or misinterpretations into the scene. However, the Cramming Officer must be able to readily locate the correct source materials or other valid materials that apply to the cram, and get these studied, duplicated and drilled by the individual who needs correction. It is important that if he encounters a misunderstood of his own in such materials he gets it cleared so that he is capable of handling the cramming action correctly. Flubbed or half-done crams can result from the Cramming Officer dramatizing his own misunderstoods.” — L. Ron Hubbard, 1981

 
——————–

Source Code

“I had an example of this. I had a couple of words on a line plot, when I was auditing, and they didn’t make much sense, and I let them go by! They didn’t make any sense to me and by George, we had a wrong item! And as soon as we got the thing straightened out and they did make sense, and so forth, they rocket read, and we went ahead beautifully. The point I’m stressing here is even though you have those forms, don’t try to gobbledygook it. Because gobbledygook won’t work. But sometimes it looks a little gobbledygooky, let’s get the idea of ‘to be Catholic.’ Let’s say that somebody had a goal like that. Got it down in the Vatican or somewhere, they got implanted, and ‘to be Catholic,’ you know. And you get down to the ‘-ness’ form of the goal. And you say, well that’s obviously the beingness of a Catholic. But by George, that doesn’t work! And you finally find out that it’s ‘Catholicness.’ Makes sense, doesn’t it? Catholicness. It isn’t an English word, but it’s a perfectly decent concept. It’s the ‘-ness’ ness of being a Catholic. See? And Catholicness, you’ll find out will fire right at that point, very nice.” — L. Ron Hubbard, April 18, 1963

 
——————–

Avast, Ye Mateys

“NAME CHANGE: The harbour recognized the ship but not the flag or name and were curious. So you better know why so you can explain it. The Hubbard Exploration Co Ltd was the original owner. It was a British Company. Because of currency restrictions the ships were sold to me, then to Operation and Transport Corporation of Panama, a Panama Company so the flag and name had to be changed. We run student cruises and came from Cadiz and will eventually be returning there. We cruise on the coasts of the Western Med.” — The Commodore, April 18, 1969

 
——————–

Overheard in the FreeZone

“One applies the capability to postulate at a level of pure static. Previous auditing actually accomplished this in varying degrees but it didn’t knowingly use that residual free theta to wisely postulate at that moment of conversion – a knowing and willing CAUSE. I exteriorized from whole track identities and realized it was who I thought I was. The beingness called basic personality was just a collection of winning identities up the track. I looked at the winning identities and said ‘that’s me’; lo, even these as-is and static regains with more wisdom.”

 
——————–

Past is Prologue

2001: The National Post reported on the efforts of Scientology to oppose the use of Prozac and Ritalin. “In a lavish ceremony, Priscilla Presley recently presented a human rights award to a courageous New York mother, Patricia Weathers. Mrs. Weathers had fought a long battle with her son’s school to get her 11-year-old son Michael off Ritalin, which she said caused him mental harm. Mrs. Weathers’ plight is well-known in the United States, where a backlash against such psychiatric drugs as Prozac and Ritalin is in full swing. What is less well-known is that this backlash has been orchestrated by the controversial Church of Scientology. Indeed, some argue that the Church has triggered the uproar almost single-handedly. Ms. Presley is a Scientologist. The Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) – which awarded Mrs. Weathers its prize – was formed by the Church in 1969. In fact, the Washington lawyer who launched a U.S. class-action suit against Ritalin’s makers and the American Psychiatric Association is also a senior Scientology official. Scientology, in its fight against Ritalin, is pursuing a broader agenda: to undermine the psychiatric profession. ‘While alerting parents and teachers to the dangers of Ritalin, the real target of the campaign is the psychiatric profession itself,’ the Church stated over a decade ago in its newspaper, Scientology Today. Scientology has also won a reputation for taking its enemies to court. Beginning in the late 1980s, it supported a series of lawsuits across the United States, attacking psychiatrists and schools with claims that attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is not a valid diagnosis, stimulant drugs are overprescribed, and the doctors who make such prescriptions are corrupt or unethical. Many of these cases were handled by John Coale, a Washington lawyer and senior Scientologist. None of the cases has been successful in court. These efforts have created a climate of fear among physicians, parents and educators and have sown anxiety and confusion among the general public, the Journal of the American Medical Association reported in 1998. Church operatives also work at raising awareness of potential side effects of psychiatric drugs, often with great success. In the wake of the massacre at Columbine, Col., CNN interviewed Dr. Mary Ann Block, author of the book No More Ritalin-Treating ADHD Without Drugs. She quoted a study noting Ritalin’s similarity to cocaine in its ability to cause psychotic episodes.”

 
——————–

Random Howdy

“It would be fun if there were real monsters, but the only real monsters on this planet are us.”

 
——————–

Full Court Press: What we’re watching at the Underground Bunker

Criminal prosecutions:
— Danny Masterson charged for raping three women: Sentenced to 30 years to life on Sep 7, 2023. Appeal now fully briefed, waiting for 2nd Appellate District court to set a hearing date. Masterson has also submitted a habeas corpus petition.
— ‘Lafayette Ronald Hubbard’ (a/k/a Justin Craig), aggravated assault, plus drug charges: Grand jury indictments include charges from an assault while in custody. Pleaded guilty on Nov 10 to a 17-year prison sentence (eligible for parole in two to three more years). Awaiting transfer to state prison.
— Aaron Matthes charged for SA of child under 12 years old: OT Scientologist facing multiple mandatory life sentences. Next pretrial court hearing set for March 9.

Civil litigation:
— Leah Remini v. Scientology, alleging ‘Fair Game’ harassment and defamation: Some defamation claims were removed by Judge Hammock. Judge Hammock’s ruling is on appeal, which is now fully briefed. Awaiting the setting of an oral arguments hearing.
— Baxter, Baxter, and Paris v. Scientology, alleging labor trafficking: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’
— Valerie Haney v. Scientology: Forced to ‘religious arbitration.’ 15 days of arbitration completed, Val waiting for further word from the IJC.
— Chrissie Bixler et al. v. Scientology and Danny Masterson. Judge Upindra Kalra’s ruling denying Scientology’s motion to strike is on appeal. Appeal fully briefed. Motion to replace Jane Does’ AI-tainted brief denied by court. Oral arguments hearing on March 3.
— Jane Doe 1 v. Scientology, David Miscavige, and Gavin Potter: Case unsealed and second amended complaint filed. Scientology moves for religious arbitration. Trial has been set for January 10, 2028.

 
——————–

 
Other links: The prosecution of Danny Masterson. Leah Remini’s Fair Game Podcast. Leah Remini’s A&E Series. Scientology’s Celebrities, from A to Z. Bryan Seymour’s suppressed series, Scientology Black Ops: Tom Cruise and dirty tricks. Scientology’s Ideal Orgs, from one end of the planet to the other. Scientology’s sneaky front groups, spreading the good news about L. Ron Hubbard while pretending to benefit society. Scientology Lit: Books reviewed or excerpted in a weekly series. How many have you read?

 
——————–

THE WHOLE TRACK

[ONE year ago] She worked with Scientology’s spies and celebs, and still has photos to prove it
[TWO years ago] Rebecca Minkoff’s Scientology involvement in the news, thanks to ‘RHONY’
[THREE years ago] Day one at the Danny Masterson retrial was wild, what’s in store for day two?
[FOUR years ago] How it went down: Transcript of Judge Olmedo denying Danny Masterson’s latest subpoenas
[FIVE years ago] Scientology social media: Taking the planet higher than it’s ever been
[SIX years ago] Scientology denied: Watch Clearwater church members calling Mark Bunker a bigot
[SEVEN years ago] When Scientology is caught spying, it always pretends it was the victim
[EIGHT years ago] Spinning cars, self-healing cuts — more ‘OT’ ghost stories from Scientologists
[NINE years ago] DOX: Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard’s nutty scheme to strong-arm America’s psychologists
[TEN years ago] Louis Theroux’s ‘My Scientology Movie’ premieres at Tribeca: Our on-scene report
[ELEVEN years ago] Scientology hit with another federal lawsuit over refunds — but with a twist
[TWELVE years ago] The rising business star, his mother, and Scientology’s attempt to rip them apart
[THIRTEEN years ago] Hysterical Hyper-Sight, and Other Lost Concepts of Dianetics

 
——————–

 
——————–

Posted by Tony Ortega on April 18, 2026 at 07:00

E-mail tips to tonyo94 AT gmail DOT com or follow us on Twitter.

Our book with Paulette Cooper, Battlefield Scientology: Exposing L. Ron Hubbard’s dangerous ‘religion’ is on sale at Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats. Our book about Paulette, The Unbreakable Miss Lovely: How the Church of Scientology tried to destroy Paulette Cooper, is on sale at Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook versions. We’ve posted photographs of Paulette and scenes from her life at a separate location. Reader Sookie put together a complete index. More information can also be found at the book’s dedicated page.

The Best of the Underground Bunker, 1995-2024 Just starting out here? We’ve picked out the most important stories we’ve covered here at the Underground Bunker (2012-2024), The Village Voice (2008-2012), New Times Los Angeles (1999-2002) and the Phoenix New Times (1995-1999)

Check your whale level at our dedicated page for status updates.

 

Tony Ortega at The Daily Beast

 

Tony Ortega at Rolling Stone

 Some links to Q-related items today

Trump: What’s a corner store? I’ve never heard that term. Who the hell wrote this? pic.twitter.com/9eDExMQYkQ

— Acyn (@Acyn) April 17, 2026

Reporter: There were a group of bishops that put out a statement saying the pope is exercising his [...]]]>

 
Some links to Q-related items today

 
Looking for some background on the QAnon movement? We recommend Travis View’s excellent article at New York magazine as a place to start.

 
THE LOWDOWN is our blog for news, the QAnon phenomenon, and other subjects not related to our coverage of the Church of Scientology. If it’s our Scientology coverage you re looking for, please use this bookmark for our latest stories.

Posted by Tony Ortega on April 17, 2026 at 08:00